FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Mary Scheibel, Principal
Trefoil Group
414-270-3513 or
mscheibel@trefoilgroup.com
Mike Ebben Named President of Skid Loader Buckets & Attachments Manufacturer
Mequon, WI — Blackthorne Partners Ltd. is pleased to announce the acquisition of Berlon Industries, a manufacturer of high quality buckets and attachments for skid loaders, telehandlers and compact utility tractors.
A family-owned business located in Hustisford, WI, Berlon serves a large customer base of approximately 900 companies in the agricultural, construction and landscape management industries through an extensive dealer network.
According to Steve Balistreri, a Blackthorne Partners principal, Berlon Industries is well positioned to grow. “Berlon is a 63-year-old company with a very high quality, yet affordable product line that has enabled it to build a strong brand reputation and serve a niche customer base. Our goal is to build on this foundation by equipping them with the resources they need to grow, but that can be difficult for small companies like Berlon to access.”
In conjunction with the acquisition, Mike Ebben, an experienced manufacturing industry leader, has been hired to serve as Berlon’s president. Lon Berndt, Berlon’s current owner, will work closely with Ebben to ensure a smooth transition.
“As the longtime owner of Berlon Industries, I was determined to make sure the next chapter of this company takes good care of our customers as well as our employees,” said Berndt. “The team of Blackthorne and Mike Ebben offer the experience and commitment it will take to grow the legacy we’ve built over the years.”
Ebben has a proven track record in developing highly motivated teams and growing successful, profitable businesses. Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions in Operations, Sales & Marketing, and Business Development for manufacturers serving both domestic and global markets.
“We are pleased to welcome Mike Ebben to the team and are confident that his leadership will play a key role in the company’s future success,” said Balistreri.
Blackthorne Partners, which made its first direct investment in September 2010, is targeting smaller, established companies that are often overlooked by traditional private equity firms.
“We believe there are many companies in our market, like Berlon, whose future can be brighter with the right ownership transition,” said Balistreri. “By focusing on companies with earnings of approximately $1 million, we not only serve an unmet need in the marketplace but have an opportunity to help these smaller businesses become the mid-market companies that are the future of Wisconsin.”
About Blackthorne Partners Ltd.: Blackthorne Partners is a private equity firm based in Mequon, WI that provides unique investment opportunities in small, niche companies that are under the radar of traditional private equity firms. The firm supports this investment experience with deep operational knowledge that advances the success of both its investors and the companies in which it invests. For more information, visit http://www.blackthornepartners.com
